Algorithm: Better to get listing going sooner w/self-photos, or wait for pro photos?

Question

Hey gang, first post here.

I'm helping my parents STR a ranch house that we're just finishing up renovating. They've put a lot of money into it and are anxious to get cash flow going.

We'll be ready to start taking on guests in about 2 weeks.

My main question is this: Will how our launch goes now now have a big impact on how the algorithm delivers our property in the future?

If we continue to make improvements to the listing over the next few weeks should we be able to get good traction with them, or is it really important to start off with as big of a bang as possible?

Here's what we've got so far: https://drive.google.com/open?...

The photos I've got so far are definitely serviceable in my book. I DON'T think we've got a great cover photo though, so I'm going to work to get that today or tomorrow.

Any input is greatly appreciated, thanks!!

Robert Schwenkler · Answer

Thanks all, I appreciate the feedback! I've got the photographer booked for May 1 and they've got a 24h turn, so I'll be posting the listing then.

John Underwood · Answer

2 weeks won't make a huge difference. Wait on the professional pictures.

Bryan S. · Answer

I think the photos look pretty good. If get $3k a booking per week and can swap out the photos new photos in two weeks anyway. Let’s say even 25% chance get bookings for the next two weeks, $6K * .25 = $1.5k of value for posting now.

$1.5k > $0

Jon Martin · Answer

Good call, it's worth the wait. Property looks awesome!

V.G Jason · Answer

I am not sure if this a serious post. But if it is, can you equate the TVM for these two weeks in waiting? And then can you equate the extrinsic value a professional photographer is going to provide? If so, let me know where you net. To answer the main post, wait. Get professional photos.

Michael Baum · Answer

I will say that I agree with some of the points about doing your own photos. We still use our photos which I took with a good DSLR.

I am now looking to get pro photos done to spruce up our listing. I think that they will help make a difference.

I do think that letting a pro go to town with a ton of touch ups on the pics create an artificial look. I don't want people to think they are getting a super sun drenched place when the reality is less than.

Here is one of my pics. Judge for yourself.

Bryan S. · Answer

I’m going against the grain here as one of the number one principles they teach in finance when I was getting my MBA, the time value of money.

While professional photos may help improve the overall appearance and attractiveness of your Airbnb listing, it's better to list your property with decent photos taken by yourself rather than waiting for professional ones. Here are a few reasons why:

• Time is money: Waiting for professional photos can take time, which could result in missed bookings and potential revenue. It's better to list your property as soon as possible with your own photos, which can always be updated later.
• First impressions matter: Decent photos taken by yourself can still give potential guests an idea of what your property looks like, and this is important when it comes to first impressions. Even if your photos are not perfect, they can still convey the general feel and layout of your space.
• Transparency is key: Authenticity and transparency are important to Airbnb guests. They want to see the real property and not just a highly edited, professional version of it. By using your own photos, you can provide an accurate portrayal of your space, and avoid any potential disappointments or negative reviews from guests who feel misled by highly edited photos.

In summary, it's better to list your property as soon as possible with decent photos taken by yourself rather than waiting for professional ones. While professional photos can certainly help enhance the appearance of your listing, they are not essential to attracting guests to your property.

Scott Mac · Answer

I think it looks great.

I like the pics, I like the showers, I like the colors, I like the lot layout.

It seems to do the job, there is nothing missing as far as I am concerned the pics are great.

Not staged, just honest, what's there.

And I like this place, including the canoe.

Labels for the pics would be nice, so I know before clicking, such as bath 1, bedroom 2, kitchen, etc...

Just my 2 cents.

Tony Ngo · Answer

I would suggest to have professional picture line up right after you finish. You done a great job on the remolding and you want it to look the best as much as possible.  The photo do the most selling part beside the price.

Jennifer Moraski · Answer

I agree.  Do you have a photographer lined up? I got quotes from 3 and asked about availability a month before I was ready. The one that took pictures was ready within 2 days and I had the pictures within 24 hours. And it was less than $500.

Algorithm: Better to get listing going sooner w/self-photos, or wait for pro photos?

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